Squeegee

Definition

A squeegee is a tool used in screen printing that consists of a handle with a flat rubber blade. It's essential for forcing ink through the mesh screen onto the substrate below, creating prints. The pressure applied by the squeegee determines the thickness and quality of the ink transfer, making it a crucial component in various printing processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Squeegees come in various sizes and durometers (hardness), allowing for different applications depending on the thickness of the ink and the texture of the substrate.
2. When using a squeegee, the angle and speed at which it's pulled across the screen can significantly affect print quality and registration.
3. In photo emulsion processes, a squeegee is used to push ink through the exposed emulsion areas, making it vital for achieving detailed and accurate prints.
4. For multi-layer stencil printing, different squeegees may be employed for each color layer to ensure clean lines and prevent smudging.
5. Squeegees can also be adapted for use on alternative printing surfaces, allowing for creative exploration in printmaking beyond traditional materials.

Review Questions

• How does the technique of using a squeegee impact the overall quality of screen printed images?
  • The technique of using a squeegee directly impacts the quality of screen printed images through factors like pressure, angle, and speed. If applied correctly, a squeegee will evenly distribute ink through the screen mesh, ensuring vibrant colors and clear designs. Conversely, improper technique can lead to uneven ink application, resulting in smudged or faded prints.
• Discuss how varying types of squeegees can influence outcomes in both photo emulsion processes and multi-layer stencil printing.
  • Different types of squeegees can dramatically change outcomes in both photo emulsion processes and multi-layer stencil printing. In photo emulsion, a softer squeegee might be used for delicate details, allowing more ink to flow through while preserving intricate designs. For multi-layer stencil printing, using a firmer squeegee can ensure that each layer remains distinct and properly registered, helping to prevent colors from blending unintentionally.
• Evaluate the role of the squeegee in enhancing creativity within alternative printing surfaces.
  • The squeegee plays a pivotal role in enhancing creativity when working with alternative printing surfaces by allowing artists to experiment with various materials and textures. By adjusting techniques such as pressure and angle when using a squeegee on unconventional substrates like wood or metal, artists can achieve unique effects that challenge traditional printmaking aesthetics. This flexibility encourages innovation and personal expression within the art of printmaking.

Related terms

Screen: A fine mesh fabric stretched over a frame that allows ink to pass through in specific areas, creating the design for printing.

Ink:

A colored liquid or paste used in printing, which can vary in viscosity and opacity depending on the desired outcome.

Substrate: The surface or material onto which ink is printed, such as paper, fabric, or plastic.